1 LU AIA/ASLAThe introduction of composite deck boards transformed the decking industry more than 20 years ago. However, one factor in the deck assembly did not see a change: the framing. Architects and builders specify and install composites that will not twist, splinter, or get eaten by termites, but most frames are still being built with wood. Putting a high-performance deck board on a low-performing foundation doesn’t make sense. This article will describe benefits of steel deck framing, how to design with, plan, and install steel deck framing. This program is registered with AIA for 1 CEH and with ASLA for 1 Hour. Take the course.
- Posted:
- October 2012
- Subject(s):
- Decking
- Sponsor:
- Trex
This course will look at the latest category shift in the building industry - cellular PVC trim. We will discuss the $2.5 billion trim market and the category shift that is underway in the industry. With a 3% shift in market share from wood to cellular PVC in only 3 years, we anticipate the continued growth of the cellular PVC category. This course will highlight how to select the types of cellular PVC and the different manufacturing processes that create some of the differences in product features. You will be able to determine the type of cellular PVC and how to use it to its full benefit. Finally, this course will show you how to identify who is using cellular PVC and some specification and installation considerations that you may have. There is a lot of information today on cellular PVC – all of which should give you a better understanding of this category so that you can make an educated and informed decision when specifying your next trim project. Take the course.
- Posted:
- July 2011
- Subject(s):
- Decking
- Sponsor:
- AZEK Building Products
Today, there are a great variety of decking products in the market on which these outdoor rooms can be built. One universal trend is that homeowners are definitely becoming more conscious of improving the resale value of their home. Therefore, they are considering building materials that align with that school of thought. Homeowners strongly dislike the thought of having to find the time – let alone spend the time - to maintain their decks to keep this leisure space beautiful and more enjoyable. The original deck material was wood, which required lots of maintenance, but PVC decks take the hassle out of deck ownership and caters to the market segment that’s seeking a high performance, lower maintenance deck option. Take the course.
- Posted:
- June 2011
- Subject(s):
- Decking
- Sponsor:
- AZEK
In this learning unit we will highlight the sustainable characteristics of PVC. This course discusses a study that was done on how energy efficiency and sustainability are the most important standard in defining a “green building material,” as well as a “green home.” It will continue on to discuss how the top three criteria for building green are performance & longevity, overall cost benefit and environmental impact, and how PVC proves to be a “green” product. After defining what PVC is made of, this course looks at PVC as a building material that is durable, and easy to install. This course will also highlight the differences between traditional materials and PVC and highlight how PVC can be the smarter option. Take the course.
- Posted:
- June 2011
- Subject(s):
- Sustainability, Decking
- Sponsor:
- AZEK

Comparing Walkable Roof Deck Membranes
This course describes types of walkable roof decks, various waterproofing options, and common problems associated with deck waterproofing; describes characteristics, advantages, and applications of walkable roof deck and outdoor flooring systems; lists important design concepts and considerations for walkable roof decks, balconies and walkways; and lists system installation considerations, common details and key issues related to specifying waterproof PVC-based roof deck and flooring membranes.
- Posted:
- December 2010
- Subject(s):
- Decking
1.0 LU HSWThis course describes types of walkable roof decks, various waterproofing options, and common problems associated with deck waterproofing; describes characteristics, advantages, and applications of walkable roof deck and outdoor flooring systems; lists important design concepts and considerations for walkable roof decks, balconies and walkways; and lists system installation considerations, common details and key issues related to specifying waterproof PVC-based roof deck and flooring membranes. Take the course.
- Posted:
- December 2010
- Subject(s):
- Decking
- Sponsor:
- Duradek
- Certification(s):
- AIA